Opinion

Barnaby Joyce might have the right leadership stuff

The resurrected deputy-PM has a good chance of success because of the common traits shared with other long-term political leaders.

Alexander DownerColumnist

Jun 27, 2021 – 1.21pm

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Hearing about the demise of Michael McCormack and the resurrection of Barnaby Joyce reminded me of a saying often attributed to Mark Twain: “Politicians are like diapers, they need to be changed often and for the same reason.”

I don’t think Mark Twain did ever say that but still, he despised politicians and so if he didn’t say it then it captured a sentiment he probably felt!

Alexander Downer was Australia's longest serving foreign minister, from 1996 to 2007, and most recently Australian High Commissioner to the UK.